CHAMBER SEEKING ENTRIES FOR BARBECUE COOK OFF

As many as 40 teams are expected to participate in the first annual Cape Girardeau BBQ Fest, to be held at Arena Park Aug. 20-21.

"This cookout gives area amateurs a chance to show off their barbecuing abilities," said Charlie Knote, professional food scientist, Culinary Institute of Smoke-Cooking, which will be offering barbecuing training session during the two-day event.

"The competition is open to amateurs throughout the region," added Knote. "Teams can range from two to 15 members."

There will be a $15 entry fee for each team. The teams will be cooking in different classes, including burgers, beef kabobs, ribs and pork butts.

"They'll be using charcoal and gas grills and water smokers," said Knote.

The reason for the barbecue cookout is to promote beef and pork to the surrounding area, said Knote. The contest is being sponsored by the Cape Girardeau Chamber of Commerce Agri-Business Committee, the Missouri Cattlemen Association and the Missouri Pork Producers.

This is the first barbecue cookout hosted by the agri-business committee.

The cookout will begin as a social event Aug. 20. Teams will set up and cook for members of their team.

The actual contest will begin at 6 a.m. Aug. 21. The public is invited to come out and watch the competition. The judging will take place at noon that day, and winners in each class will be awarded prizes from corporate sponsors.

Additional information and applications are available by contacting the Chamber of Commerce, 335-3312.